After a Cesarean Birth

Cesarean birth puts additional demands on your body and recovery. Your stay in the hospital will be a day or two longer. Once you are home, keep in mind that you are recovering from major abdominal surgery, as well as adjusting to life with a newborn.

Breastfeeding after a cesarean birth

Cesarean birth does not interfere with your ability to produce milk. Certain breastfeeding positions will be more comfortable, such as lying on your side, the football hold or sitting with a pillow cushioning your incision. Ask the nurses for suggestions.

If your baby is too sleepy to nurse at first, just let your baby become used to your touch, smell and the feel of your breast. Continue to offer your breast every two hours by placing your baby skin to skin. Refer to the Breastfeeding Section for more information.Return to top

Catheter and I.V.

The urinary catheter is generally removed after you have recovered from the anesthesia and are able to walk to the bathroom.

The I.V. will usually be removed when can drink fluids, within a day, unless you develop an infection and need antibiotics. Generally, you will not be allowed to eat solid food until your bowel activity returns. Frequent moving and walking are the best ways to encourage return of your bowel activity and prevent gas.Return to top

Pain relief

After the anesthesia wears off, you will feel some pain at the incision site. The pain will vary depending on your pain tolerance and the type of anesthesia used. Your nurse will evaluate your pain often and work with you to make you as comfortable as possible. This is the time to enjoy your baby, not to be in terrible pain! Managing your pain allows you to move, heal and care for your baby.

Coping with painWaiting too long to ask for medication will only increase the pain and tension and make it harder to control. Taking medication at regular intervals starting on the first day after birth will help you feel more comfortable than if you only take medication when the pain is bad. The discomfort becomes less each day for most women. Frequently, only very mild or even no medication is needed within a few days.If breastfeeding, some of the medication may go to the baby, but not in large enough doses to be harmful. Consider taking the medication one-half hour before breastfeeding, so nursing will be more comfortable and relaxed.Return to top

Once you are home

Try to rest as much as possible the first few weeks at home. Be easy on yourself. Remember that you are recovering from birth, major abdominal surgery and adjusting to life with a newborn!

Physical adjustmentLet others take care of household chores and other duties. The more rest you get during the initial recovery period, the faster you will feel better. It takes time for your abdominal muscles to regain their strength and flexibility. Do not expect to continue your normal activities for awhile. You may climb stairs if you feel steady. You should not drive for at least two weeks. Before you can drive again, you must be physically capable of controlling your vehicle, and you cannot be using any pain medication containing narcotics.

Emotional adjustmentMany emotions may arise after a Cesarean, such as relief, anger, resentment, disappointment or guilt. Some women may wish they had been more active in their delivery or that the decision for a cesarean had been made earlier. You may find it helpful to discuss these feelings with your partner, nurses or health care provider. They may be able to give you some information to help you understand your birth better. Be sure to ask.Return to top

Incision care

The incision site may hurt in the corners of the scar. Sharp and/or burning sensations can occur for up to 6 weeks. If you had a Cesarean birth, avoid heavy lifting for 6 weeks. Anything you can lift by the strength of your arms without bearing down is okay. Any steristrips can be removed about 10 days after surgery. You may bathe or shower, clean your incision with soap and pat dry.Call your health care provider if your incision is hot, hard, red, sore, open or draining.Return to top

Tips for partners

In addition to the general clumsiness any new parent feels with a new baby, women have greater physical adjustments after a cesarean and will need help with daily chores and caring for the baby.

Minimize your work responsibilities if possible, so you can spend time with her and the baby.

Help her position the baby for feedings.

Encourage her to walk by walking with her.

Make arrangements to minimize stair climbing at home during the first few weeks.

Lift or carry heavy objects for her the first few weeks (especially other children).

Encourage her to take many rest breaks. This is especially important for recovery after surgery.